NORTH OTAGO.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21977, 12 June 1933, Page 10

NORTH OTAGO.

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISTRICT.

(Fkom Oub Special Cqbrespondent.)

MAJESTIC PICTURES

Miss Edna May Oliver, James Gleason, Robert Armstrong, Mae Clarke, and Donald Cook are featured in the comedymystery, “ The Penguin Pool Murder, which will be shown finally to-night at the Majestic Theatre. As an hilanojis teacher turned sleuth, Miss Oliver helped Gleason* the police inspector, solve the puzzling murder of a broker, whose dead body is found in the penguin’s tank in the New York Aquarium. Mystery pictures as a rule are without a sense of humour, but in this case comedy predominates. To-morrow and Wednesday Clara Bow will appear in "Call Her Savage.” YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUB At the first meeting of the Five Forks Young Farmers’ Club, Mr Davies,- of Dunedin, gave a very interesting lantern lecture on the conserving of winter feed, ensilage, hay, etc. He showed elides ot this work that had been carried out on various farms throughout New Zealand, the kind of silos used, and the succceeses farmers had had in their labours. Ad the conclusion of the meeting Mr Rutherford thanked Mr Davies for his lecture, and Mr Selwood. qf Oamaru, for also being present. The next lecture on July 5 will be conducted by Mr Selwood. PERSONAL Queen’s Hotel.—-Mr S. Hanson (Wellington), Mr T. Black, Mr L. Bowden, Mr T. W. Perry, Mr A. R. Perry, Mr J. E. Forbes, Mr A. Cooper (Christchurch), Mr W. J. White, Mr N. Mandeno, Mr D. Smalley (Dunedin), Mr and Mrs A. Brown (Lauder). New Club Hotel.—Mr I. W. Garner, Mr and Mrs E. R. Bluett (Wellington), 'Mr L. Williamson (Auckland), Mr and Mrs E. F. Lord, Misses M. and Lord, Mr C. 0. Smith, Miss D. Smith, Miss D. Dehenham, Mr V. H. Goddard, Mr -J. Graham (Dunedin), Mr S. G. Robinson, Mr and Mrs V. S. Cox, Mr F- •J? I ]®, 3 (Christchurch), Mr and Mrs D._ Caldwell (Edendale), Mrs K. H. Riddel! (Levin), Mr G. Paterson, Mr W. M. Paterson (Arrowtown). OBITUARY The last of the very early settlers remaining on tlieir farms in the MahenO district, Mrs Elizabeth Robertson, widow of Mr James Robertson, passed away early yesterday morning at the ripe old age of 88 years, Mrs Robertson was born in Perthshire, Scotland, and came out to. New Zealand over. 60 years ago, being married at Kakanui and taking up residence at “ Valleyfield,” Maheno, where she had resided ever since. She was ot a quiet, retiring disposition, but her kindly nature and hospitality endeared her to a large number of friends, whose sympathy will go out to the family*in their bereavement. Mrs Robertson was predeceased by her husband about 17 years ago, and also by one daughter, but is survived by three sons (Mr J ames Robertson, of Eden street. , Oamaru; Messrs George and William Robertson, ot Maheno) and five daughters including Mrs Young, of Herbert, and Miss Robertson, of Maheno. MOTOR 'ACCIDENT At 6.45 yesterday morning a car was travelling south near the Maheno bridge, but owing to the fog and darkness, though the car lights were full on, the driver apparently did not see the bridge at the sharp turn, and the car crashed through the rails and plunged down the bank, overturning twice. There were three occupants besides the driver, one, a Mr John Stevens, of Tim am, suffering a broken collarbone, while the others escaped unhurt., 1 PUKEURI FREEZING WORKS With the closing of. the works on Saturday the total killings for the season were 388,419, compared with 386,836 last year, an increase of 1583, thus establisbin" a new record for the works. This makes the season allthe more successful, when it is remembered that the works closed over a month later last year—namely, on Jiffy 16. . GOLF' A Bogey Match was played by the North Otago Club on Saturday in beautiful weather, the best cards returned being as follows:—Kilpatrick 6—all square; M. S. Holmes, 7—all square; M'Beath, 7—l down; Rodgers, 18—1 down; C. R. Hedges, 14 —2 down; Scott, 7—r2 down; G. Robertson, 18 —2 down; Bews, 18 —3 down; Nichols B—3 down; MTvenzie, B—3 down; G. Cuthbertson, 5—4 down; Mulligan, 10—4 down; Roll, 11—5 dpwn; Smith, 16—5 down; Cook, 18—5 down; Milnes, 9—5 down; Catto, 14—6. down; H. B. M'Dowell, 14—6 down; Ralph Hedges, 16 —7 down; H. P. Farailton; 16—7 down; S. Cuthbertson, who did not participate •in the match, returned a card 2 up on a handicap of 8, which was the best -card returned for the day. WAIAREKA SALE Present entries for the Waiareka sale to-morrow include fat ewes, fat wethers, extra good Romney crossbred ewe hoggets, an a Jersey cow, SCOTTISH SOCIETY’S DANCE The weekly , dance of the North Otago Scottish Society held in the Scottish Hall was well patronised, and a very enjoyable time was spent by those present. The floor was in-excellent order for dancing, and a varied programme of dances added to the success of the evening. Mrs Sherwin’s orchestra provided the _ usual good music, and Messrs G. C. Craig and R. Lambie carried out the duties of M.C. _____ LADIES’ TRAMPING CLUB Nineteen members participated in the weekly hike of the Oamaru Ladies’ Tramping Club. The party met at the Post Office, and proceeded up Whnrfe street to the Beach road. The weather was ideal for tramping, and after continuing along the sea road for some distance the trampers branched off to the right until the Awamoa road was readied. Here afternoon tea was partaken of. and the party returned to town by way of, ' Awamoa and Severn street, after an enjoyable walk. It was decided to hold a picture party on Thursday night. „ LADIES’ HOCKEY SENIORS. Pirata A 2 beat Arawa A nil. JUNIORS. Maheno B 1 drew with Arawa E 1. Athletic A 8 beat Athletic B 1. Pirata B 8 beat Pirata C 1. LADIES’ HOCKEY DANCE About 50 couples were present at the weekly dance conducted by the Ladies Hockey Association in the Ribble Street Hall. Miss Sparks and partner won the lucky spot waltz, and a varied programme of dances added to the success of the evening. Rae’s orchestra provided excellent music, and Mr A. Barsdell carried out the duties of M.C.

PROTESTANT ALLIANCE LODGE Bro. Gilchrist occupied the chair at the meeting of the Protestant Alliance Lodge, Star of Oamaru, there being a good attendance of members. The repout on the Grand Lodge on the recent conference in Wanganui was received. Motions of condolence were passed with Bro. Fox in the death of his father, who had been a member of the Order for 47 years, and with Bro. Hunter in the loss of his daughter. The report and balance sheet, showing the lodge to he in a satisfactory financial position, were adopted. Accounts-amounting to £sl 16s 8d were passed for payment, and sick pay to three members was also passed. The lodge closed in the customary manner, and the rest of the evening was spent in card playing, and supper was served. AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY The weekly practices of the opera “ San Toy,” which will be presented by the Oamaru Amateur Operatic Society, have been very well attended, and members have shown a great deal of enthusiasm by their regular attendances. A good deal of attention has been devoted to the choruses of the production, and_ these should be a feature of the entertainment. Major Lampen, the well-known producer, will arrive in Oamaru shortly to take charge of the production, which, it is hoped, will be staged in August. TOC H There were some 70 members and friends present at the meeting of the Oamaru branch of Toe H. on Saturday night, when 17 members from Timaru and eight members from the Dunedin branch were the guests of the evening. The visitors arrived at about 5 p.m., and were the guests of members at tea. Mr J. M. Forrester occupied the chair at the meeting, which opened with the ceremony of " Light,” after which he extended a welcome to the visiting members. Very interesting addresses were given by the visitors, and two speeches were made by local members on thh Toe H movement. Mr B. Etherington (Timaru) dealt with the world-wide spread of Toe H, and gave an interpretation of. the ceremony of light, and Mr Watson (secretary ot the Timaru branch) dealt with the history of that branch since its inception. Mr G. Salmond (secretary of the Dunedin branch) gave a very interesting and amusing address, on the experiences ot the Dunedin Toe H. Mr T. Cumberbeach (Timaru) spoke on the Lservice aspect of Toe 11. and Major W. Widdowson and Archdeacon J. D. Russell also spoke. During the evening community singing was indulged in. and vocal solos were given by Messrs W. Castle (F im " am), Baris (Dunedin). 1. Douglas (Dunedin), and W. Oaten (Oamaru). Mr M. Tyrrell played the accompaniments. A very clever and witty monologue was given hv Mr G. Salmond (Dunedin), At the conclusion of the evening supper was served, and the visitors left for home at an early hour. The meeting was a very successful one, and the enthusiasm and comradeship shown augur well tor the success of the movement in Oamaru. MEN’S HOCKEY In the first game of the season in connection with the North Otago Mens Hockey Association’s competition, Oamaru drew with Rovers, each side securing o goals. RUGBY FOOTBALL The Oval game on Saturday, played under ideal conditions, provided the best Rugby so far this season, and patrons at the Show Grounds were treated to a display that at times reached the heights ot brilliance. Athletic consolidated its position as the premier team by defeating Old Boys, and has retained its lead ot four points on the shield ladder. Excelsior accounted for Maheno with a five points’ margin, thus retaining second place on the ladder. The curtain-raiser, in which Old Boys’ Juniors defeated Athletic, was an excellent match marked by clever goal kicking oh both sides, and with a game in hand Old Boys now, dispute the premier position in this grade with Athletic. In the country competition, Awakino maintained its unbeaten position on the ladder by defeating Kurow by 21 points to nil. | ATHLETIC v. OLD BOYS.

Athletic kicked off from the eastern, end, and play centred around the halfway line, until an Old Boy passing bout took play to the Maroon line, where a try seemed certain, but Cameron failed to accept a pass. A forward rush led by Holland took play to the Old Boy line, where Taylor was called upon to save frequently. From an Athletic passing rush, Frame took the ball from Steele, and sent out to ■ Murray, who ran to the full-back before passing to Ludemann, who scored well out. Cameron missed with a fine kick. Old Boys 3, Athletic nil. Bndd was very safe at full-back, and saved his side repeatedly. At this stage, Judkins had to leaye the field, his place being taken by Di Wilson. The Athletic forwards made a strong sally to the Black line, Frame taking a good mark. Hunter was injured, and had to leave the field. Webb came on at wing, Frame playing second five-eighth, and Cameron going to centre. A strong run by Murray put the Maroons in trouble, and nn attempt to speculate behind the line by one of the backs allowed Cameron to touch dojvn. The same player converted. Old Boys 8, Athletic nil. From the commencement, Dwyer short-punted cleverly, and fumbling by Taylor say Brown dive over for a try Park converted from well in front. Old' Boys 8, Athletic 5. Athletic pressed on the line, and were unlucky not to score. A penalty kick from the sideline by Park went wide, and Ternpero took a good mark, half-time sounding with the scores: Old Boys 8, Athletic 5. Athletic . attacked strongly on resumption, blit a penalty to Old Boys took play upfield. Hedges being responsible for a good piece of work. Securing from a Maroon forward rush, Mason pierced the Old Boy defence to score a very pretty try under the posts. Park made no mistake with the kick. Athletic 10, Old Boys - From a passing bout by the Old 'Boy backs, Webb gained a lot of ground with a good run up the side line. The same player again put in a fine run, and, fending off two Athletic hacks, .crossed for a splendid try. Cameron narrowly missed converting. Old Boys 11, Athletic 10. Mason found touch with a clever kick to the corner, and a littld later was very unfortunate not to add four points to his side’s score when a pot at goal hit the cross bar and bounced back. Athletic continued to attack, and scrum followed serum right on the Old Boys’ line. A penalty to Athletic for handling in the serum, allowed Park to put. his side ahead with a goal from a fairly easy position. Athletic 13, Old Boys'll. A great run up the line by Webb put Old Boys on the attack, but a penalty to Athletic saw Holland line well downfield. Holland was finding touch with tine judgment, and again put his side on the attack with a good kick. Palmer and Mason caught the Old Boys’ ,hacks out of position, and the latter player dived over for his second try. Park again converted. Athletic 18, Old Boys 11. Old Boys made desperate efforts to score, but the Athletic defence was sound, and the Maroon forwards gave their backs plenty of the hall. Ternpero cross-kicked cleverly, and Murray gathered in before in-passing to Cameron, who slipped when he had a clear passage to the lino. Play veered from one end of the field to the other, when Steele secured and outpaced the opposition to a spectacular try under the posts. Park again converted. Athletic 23, Old Boys 11. Old Boys made a last desperate effort to add to the score, but time sounded with the scores still: 7 Ath,letic .. .. .. 23 points. Old Boys 11 points. Mr 11. Cross was the referee. EXCELSIOR v. MAHENO. From the commencement of the game between Excelsior and Maheno the Blues had the territorial advantage until well on in the first spell, and many likely movements went ahegging as the result of erratic passing and fumbling by the Blue

backs. Knight sent his backs away on several successive occasions, but the Greens put up a sound defence. From a ruck Knight secured, the ball travelling to Harle, who put in a sensational run to pass several opponents before in-pass-ing to Murray, who dived over unopposed. Murray converted with a great kick. Excelsior 5, Maheno nil. At this stage both packs put in some solid work, and the game became willing. Excelsior gained possession from the majority of the line outs, but the Blue backs did not take advantage of the many opportunities which came their way. Maheno now took a turn at attack, and invaded Hhie territory for the first time. From a penalty to the country team Yorston found the posts with a good kick. Excelsior 5, Maheno 3. Soon after Yorston and G. Newlands were unlucky in not scoring for the Greens. From a scrum, however, Soulless sent out to Lindsay, who cut in nicely to beat A. Wilson before passing to G. Lawrence, the last-named finishing off the movement by crossing for a nice try. Yorston made no mistake with the kick at goal. Maheno 8, Excelsior 5. Give-and-take play ensued, and half time sounded with the scores unaltered. In the second half Excelsior had much the better of play, and the backs outclassed their opponents in every department of the game. Granger, at full-back, proved safe, and his line kicking- saved. his side on several occasions. Both sides were getting a fair share of the ball at this stage, and at times the game became open. Maheno attacked strongly, but a good forward rush by Easton and Cleverley put the Blues on the offensive. Knight secured from a serum and sent his backs away in a good movement. M'Callum dashed along the line and sent in to Harle, who had a clear run in to score behind the posts. Murray succeeded with the kick at goal. Excelsior 10, Maheno S. The Green backs again let Excelsior away, and Easton secured to put in a fine run and dashed over the line with several Green players on top of him, a scrum resulting on the Green line. From loose play Harle secured and, putting in a fine run, outpaced the opposition to score his second try. Murray’s kick at goal failed. Excelsior 13, Maheno 8. Although Maheno made several endeavours to cross the Blue line, the defence proved too sound, and the game ended with the scores: Excelsior 13 points. Maheno .. .. 8 points. Mr M'Stay was the referee. JUNIORS. Excelsior 6, Maheno nil. Old Boys 15, Athletic 12. THIRD GRADE. ' Athletic 13, Excelsior 3. St. Kevin’s 32, Old Boys 6. FOURTH GRADE. Athletic 33, School B nil. School A 13 drew with Southern 13. FIFTH GRADE. Athletic 15, School B nil. St. Kevin’s 30, School A nil, WAITAKI COMPETITION. Georgetown 3, Tokarahi nil. Duntroon 3, Ngapara nil. Awakino 21, Kurow nil. MINIATURE RIFLE SHOOTING The following are the highest scores at the weekly shoot of the Glenavy Miniature Rifle Club:—D. M'Culloch 79, J. Paul 78, R. Hollamby 78, J. Purdie 78, J. Brown 78, J. B. Chapman 77, W. Berry 77, N. Fleming 77, N. Gibson 77, C. Fleming 77, G. Wilson 77, William Devlin 77, E, Erridge 77. A. Chalmers 77, W. M'Culloch 76, D. M'Lean 76, G. Hamilton 76, K. Swann 75, B. Duff 75, Walter Devlin 75, J. Hollamby 75, C. Dugdale 75, N. Andrew 75, C. Bishop 75, F, Mountford 74, J. M'Culloch 74, D. Brown 74, G. Searle 74, R. Hodgkinson 74, D. Cochrane 74, J. Milmine 73, A. M'Culloch 73, E. Grimson 73, G. Todd 73. The scores at the weekly shoot of the Railway Club were as follows:—C. Andrew, 80 —2—80; 6. Ward, 78—2—80; F. Longman, 77 —6—80; E. Latimer, 77 — 9—80: V. Barker. 76—7—80; J. Dowuie, 76—7—80; W. Woodall, 75—5—80; D. Black, 75—10—80; J. Watenvorth, 74 S—80; J. M'Pherson, 70—12—80; A. Brown, jun., 75 —5—79; C. Hinkley, 73 —6—79; A. Brown, sen., 76—*2 —78; F. Jones, .744 —78; J. Curwood, 68—10— 78; A. Gumming, 72—5—77; E. Ronev, 70—7—77; A. Rennie, 65—12—77. C. Andrew won the button off the rifle, and in tire shoot-off for the handicap button E. Latimer was successful. MAHENO DEFENCE RIFLE CLUB The Maheno Defence Rifle Club wound up a successful season by holding, as in former years, a social gathering in the Maheno Hall. There was a good attendance, Mr A. Lindsay (president) occupying the chair. 4 number of interesting items, yogal and elocutionary, were rendered during the evening, a special feature being community singing led by Mr Lex Clark at the piano. During a suitable interval the president addressed the gathering and presented the prize as follows: —Champion of the club, Colonel J. C. Nichols’s challenge cup, Rifleman D. Grant: Mr James Barron’s cup, Rifleman A. Price; most consecutive number of bull’s eyes, Mr H. Davies’s cup, Rifleman C. M’Lean (10 bull’s eyes). At the conclusion of a very pleasant evening the president thanked the performers and others who had assisted in making the social such a success. THE POULTRY INDUSTRY The .third of a series of meetings held in North Otago in connection with the organisation of the poultry industry of the Dominion was held in the County Council Chambers, in which, as with those at Waitaki and Herbert, considerable interest was taken by those engaged in the industry. The meeting was held under the auspices of the Otago and Southland Council of the New Zealand Poultry Association, and was presided over by Mr J. Hutton (president), who explained that it had been convened to discuss the questions of organisation, export of surplus eggs, and the Poultry Bill.

Mr F. C. Brown (chief poultry instructor of the Department of Agriculture), in his address, said that he was exceedingly pleased at the progress made by the industry during the last 35 to 40 years in which he had been connected with the department. He contrasted conditions in the industry then with those prevailing to-day, and commented that many advances had been made through experimental -work, and the improvement in stock over that period of years. His point was to impress on his listeners that whilst production had made such gratifying advancement, something else had to be considered of the position of the industry as a moneymaking proposition today, and that question was the organisation of the industry. Years ago New Zealand had to import large quantities of Asiatic egg pulp, and the poultry keepers could not live against the price at which this pulp could be landed at Wellington. Due to pressure from the New Zealand Poultry Association, an embargo was placed on, this pulp, on condition that the poultry keepers guaranteed that the requirements as regards consumption in the winter and autumn months would be met. That had been done. Flocks had been , increased, and they had now reached the point that they had all the pulp they required, and they had reached above the consumptive point, enabling them to export 5200 cases of 30 dozen eggs each last year. In the spring the price of eggs was lid per dozen, and the consuming public had had every inducement to cat eggs so far os the price was concerned, indicating that production was on the point of overreaching demand. A tremendous amount of egg pulp had been put down, and on March 31 they had TO.OlSlb of egg pulp more than at the corresponding date last year, and they had to consider seriously the question of unloading the surplus eggs on overseas markets. After supplyins the average consuming public they had 375 tons of egg pulp put down, equal to 21,000 cases of eggs for export, and there was every indication that production was increasing every day. There was a necessity for some organisation, for the .industry could not go ahead withcut organisation, and it was really wonderful how they had built it up to the present point without organisation. Poultry-keeping was looked on as the Cinderella of the primary industries, but now it was on top, but had it not been for the eggs exported the prices would

have been much lower. Food costs was the biggest factor in the industry, and high food costs checked production, and during recent years food prices had risen and prices for eggs decreased. Now there was a tendency for food prices to decrease, and they had no idea what was going to happen, but he advised them not to go in for over-production until they could deal with the surplus on the overseas markets. In view of the population of New Zealand, it meant only a small surplus lor the market to collapse, as only 2 per cent, of the eggs produced were exported. Mr Brown dealt with statistics concerning the industry, and pointed out that there was difficulty in organising the industry because the flocks were held in such small lots, the great bulk of the eggs being produced by farmers as an adjunct to ordinary farming operations. They therefore took no interest in the marketing of eggs. They would be surprised if they knew the amount spent by the association in fighting for concessions for poultry keepers. The association had spent time and money, and it was realised that it was absolutely useless to try and organise the industry under voluntary effort, , At tlje annual conference every delegate realised the necessity for some form of compulsion, and the Poultry Bill was introduced, based on principles submitted by the association. The department was always the friend of the man on the land, and it had brought about grading regulations that had placed the New Zealand product on such a high standard on overseas markets. If the Bill were carried out it was going to be to the advantage of the producers and the consumers. The registration fee of 2s 6d per 100 birds was not a tax, but only an investment, going to the fund of the association to enable it to organise the industry. There had been a good deal of misrepresentation. The export of eggs had depended on a few, and the great majority had been carried on the backs of the minority. If they were to have cheaper eggs in the winter and autumn, it was obvious that there would be a greater surplus in the spring and summer. The aspect of marketing in New Zealand called for serious consideration. He would like to see the surplus going out of the country under the joint effort of the producers, and not go into the hands of speculators. The egg distributors had done very valuable work. He urged them to support the Bill, which contained provision for organisation, and he impressed on them the necessity of organisatiou and stabilisation of the industry. Mr C. Cussens (assistant poultry instructor) briefly supported the previous speaker, pointing out that voluntary effort had failed, and that the Women’s Division and Women’s Institute had indicated that many more of the settlers’ wives were going to take a greater interest in the industry. They would have increased production, and they should be prepared beforehand.

Mr J. N. M'Lean (secretary of the New Zealand Poultry Association) dealt with the provisions of the Poultry Bill, saying that the only opposition to the Bill came from people who did not understand it. This was the twenty-eighth public meeting held in connection with the Bill, and at 23 meetings votes in sppport had been carried unanimously, there had been one dissentient at three meetings, and at one meeting three dissentients. The departmental officers were doing all they could in the best interests of the producers, and the Minister was also anxious to do all he could. He put it to them, as poultry-keepers, that this was their opportunity, and if they thought the Bill was going to help to organise the industry, then they should support it. Mr M'Lean explained the provisions of the Bill, and said that much of the so-called opposition was mere fabrication' and inaccurate. Some statements broadcast through the country were absolutely untrue, and they had to look for something deeper than a mere lack of knowledge. The Bill was in the interests of the producers, and would not affect the marketing interests at all. Dealing with the 1926 census, .lie pointed out that some 36,000 poultry-keepers would have to register,, out of 154,000 who kept fowls, registration being required only on 25 hens or ducks, male birds not counting. Registration would be made in July, which was all in favour of the poultrykeeper, and exemption due to undue hardship could be granted by the board. The registration was 2s 6d for 25 to 100 birds, and 2s 6d for every 100 or part of 100 above the first 100. It was essential that registration should be carried out as economically as possible, and at the least possible trouble to the producer. From the registrations there was likely to accrue £4OOO to the board annually, which was not a tax, but a producers’ pool. The yearly census would be an important benefit, as from that they would be able to assess the probable production of eggs during the coming year. Everyone registered automatically became a member of the New Zealand Poultry Association, which had given a written guarantee that it had no wish to dominate the board, and that once the board was in working order the association would withdraw, so that the members would constitute a new New Zealand Poultry Association, of which there would be branches in every district, which would elect representatives to the board. He pointed out the power of the new association, which would be speaking on behalf of 40,000 producers, and would be able to place their views on such matters as tariff adjustments on fowl foodsl The functions of the board would be to organise and develop the industry. A great deal of opposition was on the ground that if the Bill ,were carried it would mean the control of marketing. The association had no idea of controlling the marketing, and the Minister and Crown law officer had given an assurance that there was no intention to' control the marketing. Mr M'Lean pointed out that if there were no outlet for the surplus eggs the market would collapse, and the board could spend out of the fund subsidies to the producers on the export of eggs, and could also set up a reserve fund. ■ From a national as well as an individual point of view, if they could keep up the price by Id per dozen it would mean £30,000 to the producers annually, and if they had to subsidise exports by 2d per dozen it would take only £2500 from the fund, so they would benefit by £27,500 annually. The machinery in the Bill offered the only practical means of organising the industry and organising the export of surplus eggs, and generally protecting the interests of poultry keepers. He was confident it would be a success. Provision had been made for a poll of members after a three years’ trial, provided 20 per cent, of the paying members wished a poll to be taken. He was confident the Bill would have the continued support of the Government, and would be passed in the next session. The following resolutions were unanimously carried by the meeting:— “ That the meeting strongly approves of the Poultry Bill as passed by the Lower House last session, and urges the Government to reintroduce the Bill as early as possible next session.”

“ This meeting of poultry-keepers, being convinced of the urgent necessity for exporting as many surplus eggs as possible during the coming season in order to prevent the collapse of the local market, urges producers and merchants to cooperate for that purpose, and those present undertake to do all in their power to assist in that direction.” Mr M'Lean brought forward the need the association felt for financial assistance in its fight on the producers’ behalf, and explained that some 70 or 80 poultry-keepers had contributed to the fighting fund on the basis of 2s 6d per 100 'birds, which they would have had to pay if the Bill had passed last session. It was hoped that these contributions would be returned when the board was established, but no definite promise could be given in that direction, though there was a good chance of this being done. Several of those present signified their intention of contributing towards the fund on that basis, and hearty votes of thanks to the speakers and the chairman brought a very instructive meeting to a close. MANCHESTER UNITY The fortnightly meeting of the Loyal Oamaru Lodge wag attended by a fair number of officers and brethren. N.G. Bro. V. Mulligan presiding. Several sisters of the Loyal Star of the North Lodge were also present. A motion of condolence was passed with Bro. J. Franklin on the death of his sister. Two candidates were initiated into the Order. Two members were transferred to the medical officers, and one member was granted his clearance to Loyal Waikouaiti. The Loyal Star of the North wrote

in reference to an initiation competition to be held between the lodges of North Otago—namely, Loyal Star of the North, Oamaru, Dunback, Palmerston, Kakanui, and Tokarahi. It was decided to agree to the proposal, provided the other lodges do likewise. The following nominations were receivedN.G.. Bro. J. Christie; Y.G., Bro. J. M'Caffery; E.S., Bro. D. Weir; warden, Bro. W. Finder; guardian—Bro. R. Cleveland, Bro. C.. Hay, and Bro. R. Hay. The nominations were then left open until next meeting. Several brethren reported on the sick. G.M. Sis. Jenkin responded to the visitors’ toast on behalf of the Loyal Star of the North. P.G. Bro. T. Finder reported on his visit to the lodges of Central Otago. G.M, Bro. Hesselyn reported on a meeting of the friendly societies of North Otago in respect to medical fees. It was decided to combine with the Loyal Star of the North, in holding the annual dance at an early date. JUVENILE LODGE.

There was a good attendance of officers and members at the fortnightly meeting of the Loyal Oamaru Juvenile Lod<m, N.G. Bro, W. Hesselyn presiding. The following members were elected to office for the ensuing term:—G.M., Bro. W. Hesselyn; N. 6., Bro. D. Brown; V.G., Bro. D. Little; E.S., Bro. J. Kidd; warden, Bro F. Manyard; guardian. Bro. B. Winslay; conductor, Bro. N. Jenkin. The president (G.M. Bro. G. Hesselyn) acted as installing officer, assisted by members of the adult lodges. He then presented Bro. F. Manyard with Sisters Kidd and Hanley’s prize for the best behaved member of the lodge, and to Bro. N. Jenkin a .certificate of merit. Bro. Newson, of Loyal Caversham Lodqe. responded on behalf of “ The Visitors ” toast. During recess a quoits competition was held. The evening terminated with supper, given by the Management Committee, the boys doing full justice to the fare. PAPAKAIO WOMEN’S INSTITUTE At a meeting of the Papakaio Women’s Institute the president (Mrs Whyte) occupied the chair. Final arrangements were made for the holding of the second birthday party. A letter from the Home Science Extension Bureau agreeing to give a lecture on “ Dress Form ” to a combined meeting at Oamaru on August 1 was received. The roll call, "My Pet Superstition,” caused a good deal of amusement. Mrs Aubrey reported on the federation meeting hfild in Dunedin, and she was accorded a vote of thanks. A very interesting address on her recent trip abroad was given by Mrs Tait, of Oamaru. The president extended to Miss K. Cameron, who is leaving the district to commence training as a nurse, all good wishes for her future happiness. A competition for the best child’s lunch was won by Miss Sanders. Mrs Ludemann is to be congratulated on gaining the most points 'for the competitions during the year. Afternoon- tea was served by Mrs Hurst, Misses Hurst and Ludemann. VOLUNTEER NOTES By Kit Bag. On Friday, June 2, about 45 members of B Company, under the command of Lieutenant G. Robertson, left by the express to attend the King’s Birthday parade in Dunedin, On arrival they were met by their company commander, Captain P. Speirs, M.C., V.D., Members of the company who were not staying with friends were then conveyed to the Kensington barracks by car. On Saturday morning the Ist Battalion, Otago Regiment, paraded at the barracks, where the whole battalion was»sized and formed up into companies. The battalion, under the command of Major Widdowson, M.C., V.D., then marched off with fixed bayonets, headed by the Ist Battalion Otago Regiment Band, aibng Anderson’s Bay road to the Oval to take up its position. The whole parade, under the command of Lieutenant-colonel A. S. Falconer, D. 5.0., M.C.. was formed up across the Oval with the 14th Battery on the right, followed in order of seniority by the R.N.V.R., Mounted Rifles. 12th Battery, and Ist Battalion Otago Regiment, while the School Cadets were drawn up in rear. On arrival of the Minister of Defence, the G.O.C. New Zealand Forces, a general salute was given, after which the battery fired the royal salute, followed by a “ feu de joie,” fired by the other units on parade. The National Anthem was then played, and the officer in command called for three cheers for his Majesty the King. The Drum and Bugle Band and colour party of the Ist Battalion Otago Regiment carried out a modified form of trooping the colour; the colour being saluted by each unit in turn. While this movement was being carried out the Minister of Defence (Mr J. G. Cobbe;) and Major-general Sinclair-Burgess, C.M.G., D. 5.0., C. 8., inspected the regiments on parade. To conclude the parade, each unit marched past the Minister and the G.0.C., who took the salute at the pavilion on the Anderson’s Bay road. The first Battalion Otago Regiment marched along Princes street and back to the barracks, where they were dismissed. Members of B Company, who were quartered at the Kensington barracks, appreciated very much all that was done to make their stay enjoyable. Parades. —There will be a company parade on Wednesday, June 14, after which there will be a meeting of the Volunteer Club. Miniature Rifle Club.—-This club is attracting a number of volunteers, and, judging by the scores registered, should do well when the competitions start. The club would like to take this opportunjty of thanking Major Widdowson and Major Forrester fqr donating silver buttons. Basket Ball Club.—Competitions for the basket ball cup are now in full swing, the following being the result of last Wednesday’s games:—No. 6 Platoon 8 beat ex-n.c.o.’s 6; No. 5 Platoon 0 beat Toe H nil. Barracks at St. Kevin’s College.—A three-day’s barracks was held at the above school from May 23 to 26. The results of the barracks exceeded all expectations, and it speaks very well for the enthusiasm of the boys and their instructors. The following permanent staff instructors conducted the barracks: —Sergeant-major A. Cockerill, D. 5.0., Staff Sergeant-major M'Kcnzie, and Staff Sergeant-major M'Currie. Major Mead, D.S.G., inspected the school, and expressed great pleasure at the progress made. Waitaki Boys’ High School and St. Kevin’s. —The Minister of Defence, the G.0.C., New Zealand Forces (Majorgeneral Sinclair-Burgess, C.M.G.. D. 5.0., C. and Lieutenant-colonel Nicholls, D. inspected these two schools on Monday, and expressed very great satisfaction at the work being carried out by the cadets, and added that they were the best schools inspected to date. The Minister of Defence presented the Waitaki Boys’ High School with the Islington Cup.